Thinking about cruising with Royal Caribbean in 2024? You’re not alone. Many travelers look forward to enjoying a cold beer while soaking up the sun on deck. But how much should you budget for that refreshing drink?
Key Takeaways
- Beer Pricing Overview: Expect domestic beers to cost between $7 and $10, while craft and imported options range from $8 to $12 on Royal Caribbean in 2024.
- Beverage Packages: Consider the Deluxe Beverage Package for $63 to $89 per day if you plan to enjoy multiple drinks, as it can lead to significant savings.
- Daily Specials: Check for happy hour promotions at various bars, which may offer discounts on select beers to help you save during your cruise.
- Location Matters: Beer prices differ based on the venue; bars near the pool may charge more than those in quieter dining areas.
- Gratuity Awareness: Remember that an automatic 18% gratuity is added to all beverage purchases, affecting your total drink budget.
- Explore Local Options: Enjoy local brews during port days for unique flavors at potentially lower costs compared to onboard drinks.
Overview Of Royal Caribbean Beverage Pricing
Royal Caribbean’s beverage pricing varies based on the drink type and package options. As of 2024, here’s what you can expect:
Individual Drink Prices
- Beer: Prices for domestic beers generally range from $7 to $10. Craft and imported beers may cost between $8 and $12.
- Wine: Glasses of house wine typically start at $10. Premium selections can go up to $20 or more per glass.
- Cocktails: Most cocktails are priced between $11 and $15, depending on the ingredients and venue.
Beverage Packages
Consider purchasing a beverage package for cost savings. Royal Caribbean offers several plans:
- Deluxe Beverage Package: Approximately $63 to $89 per day. This package includes beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Refreshment Package: Priced around $29 to $40 per day. It covers non-alcoholic beverages like sodas, juices, and specialty coffees.
- Check for Daily Specials: Some bars may offer happy hour pricing with discounts on select drinks.
- Understand Gratuity: A 18% gratuity is automatically added to beverage purchases. This affects the total price you’ll pay.
- Plan for Port Days: Prices in port may differ significantly from those on board. Explore local options for potentially lower costs.
Reviewing these details helps you set a realistic budget for your Royal Caribbean cruise in 2024.
Factors Influencing Beer Prices
Beer prices on Royal Caribbean depend on several factors. Understanding these influences helps you plan your budget more effectively while enjoying the cruise experience.
Onboard Location
Prices differ based on where you enjoy your beer. Bars near the pool, lounges, and dining areas often charge more due to convenience. Meanwhile, restaurants and specialty venues might offer varying prices depending on their ambiance and exclusivity. For example, a beer at a casual poolside bar typically costs less than one at a premium bar or a themed restaurant.
Beer Selection
The type of beer you choose significantly influences the price. Domestic beers average $7 to $10, while craft and imported options can range from $8 to $12. You may also find exclusive beers at specific venues, often priced higher due to limited availability. Additionally, special events or themed nights may feature unique selections, impacting costs. Opt for local brews to save money while experiencing something unique to your cruise destination.
Average Beer Prices In 2024
Enjoying a beer on your Royal Caribbean cruise in 2024 involves understanding the average costs associated with various beer selections. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay.
Popular Beers And Their Costs
Domestic beers provide great value. Prices typically range from $7 to $10. Favorites include:
- Budweiser: Around $7 to $8
- Miller Lite: Generally about $7 to $8
- Coors Light: Similar pricing, usually $7 to $9
Craft and imported beers offer a wider flavor palette, with prices averaging from $8 to $12. Popular options include:
- Blue Moon: Often priced around $9
- Heineken: Expect to pay about $10
- Sam Adams: Typically around $8 to $11
Specialty Beers And Upscale Options
Specialty beers and upscale selections tend to cost more. These prices typically fall between $12 and $18, depending on the specific brand and ambiance of the venue. Examples include:
- Local Craft Brews: Often priced at $12 to $15, introducing you to regional flavors.
- Seasonal or Limited-Edition Beers: Prices can range from $15 to $18.
When venturing to select bars or lounges, be prepared for higher charges, especially for unique or exclusive offerings. Look out for special promotions or themed events, as they sometimes feature signature beers at reduced rates, enhancing both your experience and budget.
Comparison With Other Cruise Lines
Beer prices on Royal Caribbean show a competitive landscape when compared to other cruise lines. Here’s a breakdown of how the costs stack up:
Carnival Cruise Line
- Domestic Beers: $6 to $9
- Craft/Imported Beers: $7 to $11
- Specialty Beers: $10 to $15
Carnival tends to offer lower prices on standard domestic options, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Norwegian Cruise Line
- Domestic Beers: $7 to $10
- Craft/Imported Beers: $8 to $12
- Specialty Beers: $12 to $16
Norwegian’s pricing aligns closely with Royal Caribbean, but some craft selections might be slightly pricier.
Disney Cruise Line
- Domestic Beers: $8 to $11
- Craft/Imported Beers: $9 to $13
- Specialty Beers: $14 to $20
Disney generally charges higher prices, especially for its specialty and craft options, appealing to a family-oriented market.
MSC Cruises
- Domestic Beers: $5 to $8
- Craft/Imported Beers: $7 to $10
- Specialty Beers: $12 to $15
MSC offers some of the lowest prices for domestic beers, allowing for a budget-friendly drink option.
- Beverage Packages: When comparing all cruise lines, consider beverage package options for potential savings. Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package averages $63 to $89 per day, while Norwegian and Carnival also offer similar packages.
- Understanding Gratuities: Most cruise lines automatically add gratuities to beverage purchases. Be aware of this added cost when budgeting.
- Local Brews: Whenever possible, opt for local or regional beers. This often provides a unique tasting experience without breaking the bank.
By carefully comparing prices across different lines and utilizing package options, you can enjoy a cold beer at a reasonable price on your cruise.
Tips For Saving On Beer Costs
- Consider Beverage Packages: Opt for the Deluxe Beverage Package if you plan to drink multiple beers a day. This package offers significant savings, with daily costs ranging from $63 to $89.
- Check for Daily Specials: Many bars on the ship offer daily drink specials. Review the cruise schedule for discounted drinks or themed nights, which can save you money while enjoying your favorite brews.
- Explore Local Brews: Choose local or onboard exclusive beers instead of imported brands. Local options often provide unique flavors at a lower price, enhancing your experience without breaking the bank.
- Dine in Different Venues: Drink prices can vary significantly between locations. Bars by the pool may charge more than those in dining venues. Look for quieter pubs or lounges where prices might be more competitive.
- Limit Order Size: Watch out for jumbo beer servings or pitchers, which might seem like a deal but can cost more overall. Smaller servings prevent overspending while allowing you to sample different beers.
- Bring Your Own Drinks: If your cruise allows it, bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard. This move can free up your budget for beer purchases.
- Plan for Port Days: Prices can vary when the ship is docked. Explore local bars during port stops where prices may be lower than onboard options.
- Know the Gratuity: Be aware that an automatic 18% gratuity is added to all beverage purchases. Factor this into your budget when planning how much you’ll spend on drinks.
Implementing these tips can lead to enjoyable evenings without overspending on beer during your Royal Caribbean cruise in 2024.
Conclusion
Planning your beer budget for a Royal Caribbean cruise in 2024 can really enhance your experience. With a variety of prices and options available you can find something that fits your taste and wallet. Don’t forget to explore those beverage packages if you plan on enjoying a few drinks each day.
Keep an eye out for daily specials and consider trying local brews for a unique twist. By being mindful of where and what you order you can sip your favorite beers while keeping your budget in check. So get ready to raise a glass and make some unforgettable memories on your cruise!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the average drink prices on Royal Caribbean cruises in 2024?
Drink prices can vary, but generally, domestic beers range from $7 to $10, craft and imported beers are between $8 to $12, house wine starts at $10, and cocktails typically cost between $11 and $15.
What is the Deluxe Beverage Package?
The Deluxe Beverage Package is an option for cruisers who plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily. It ranges from approximately $63 to $89 per day, allowing for unlimited drinks, including alcohol, throughout the cruise.
Are there additional fees added to drink purchases?
Yes, an automatic gratuity of 18% is added to all beverage purchases, so it’s important to take this extra cost into account when budgeting for drinks on your cruise.
How can I save money on drinks while cruising?
To save money, consider purchasing the Deluxe Beverage Package, look for daily drink specials, explore local brews, dine at venues with varying prices, and be mindful of order sizes to avoid overspending.
How do Royal Caribbean’s drink prices compare to other cruise lines?
Royal Caribbean’s drink prices are competitive. Domestic beers at Carnival range from $6 to $9, while Norwegian is similar in pricing. Disney tends to be more expensive, especially for specialty beers, whereas MSC offers lower prices for domestic options.
Are there specific factors that influence beer prices on Royal Caribbean?
Yes, beer prices vary based on the onboard location, beer selection, and whether you are in a convenient area like the pool bar or a specialty restaurant. Exclusive offerings and special events can also affect prices.
Should I check prices on port days?
Yes, prices on port days may be lower, so it’s beneficial to plan ahead and take advantage of less expensive options when the ship is docked.
